San Francisco Grand City Tour
Overview
Begin your journey at Union Square or Fisherman’s Wharf, boarding a comfortable, air-conditioned bus with a knowledgeable driver-guide. Venture through Golden Gate Park, where you’ll see expansive lawns, scenic windmills near Ocean Beach, and even a bison paddock.
Continue past row upon row of cheerful Victorian and Queen Anne homes while your guide narrates San Francisco’s layered past—from native tribes to Spanish settlement and the frenzy of the Gold Rush. Trace the old Barbary Coast route before crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. Pause at Vista Point for a panoramic snapshot of the city and bay.
Other highlights include a drive-by of the grand Palace of Fine Arts, a look at the historic Presidio (once an Army base, now part of a national park), and glimpses of Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, and North Beach. Catch a view of Alcatraz Island, and if the weather is clear, ascend Twin Peaks for sweeping, elevated city vistas.
You can also choose to enhance your tour with an optional San Francisco Bay cruise, giving you a whole new perspective on the city’s waterfront, a half-day bike rental for a self-paced spin through local neighborhoods, or entry to the Aquarium of the Bay to get a close-up look at marine life native to these waters.
Itinerary
Departing the heart of Union square, the coach makes its way to the Golden Gate Bridge.
On your way to the Golden Gate Bridge, travelers will see:
Union Square: Theatres, shopping, hotels
Van Ness Avenue
We make our way north on Van Ness Avenue. Famous for being used as a firebreak, by the US Army during the 1906 earthquake and fire.
Cow Hollow
Two affluent neighborhoods, attracting young professionals. Chic fashion boutiques, Pilates studios, juice shops, beauty salons. Many fine dining restaurants ranging from French Bistros to American Fusion Cuisine.
Palace of Fine Arts Theatre
Designed by Bernard Maybeck for the 1915 Worlds Fair.
This 162-foot high open rotunda appears as a Greek-Roman inspired fictional ruin.
Disembark bus and explore the structure and lagoon.
10 minutesGolden Gate Bridge
The tour crosses the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
On a clear day, the Golden Gate Bridge offers a panoramic view of the bay and the San Francisco skyline.
15 minutesPresidio of San Francisco
Former U.S. Army military fort,1500-acre park.
Home to; Baker Beach, hiking, historic buildings house the Walt Disney Family Museum, eateries, homes, and businesses like Lucasfilm, with its Yoda Fountain.
Lands End
Beautiful coastal stop at Ocean Beach with rugged cliffs, cypress forest, and views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Pacific Ocean, Sutro Bath ruins, and the Cliff House.
15 minutesGolden Gate Park
Entering Golden Gate Park from the west we pass by one of two Dutch Windmills. Journeying through the park the driver will point out all the points of interest; Bison Paddock, Japanese Tea Gardens, California Academy of Science, Conservatory of Flowers.
Haight-Ashbury
Travelers will see where the Hippie movement began during the Summer of Love. Unusual stores, unique dining and live entertainment.
Twin Peaks
Two identical peaks give this attraction its name. One of the highest peaks in the city, you will have breathtaking 360 degree views of the entire city
15 minutesThe Castro
Descending down towards Market Street, we enter the Castro District.
All are welcome and safe in this LGBT community!
Embarcadero Farmer's Market
This major thoroughfare in San Francisco. We drive east from the Castro towards the Ferry Building and the downtown Financial District.
Mission District
Stops with Photo opportunities at Mission district
10 minutesFinancial District
Among the skyscrapers that dominate the skyline (Transamerica Pyramid, Salesforce Tower), there is a wealth of tech business and Fortune 500 companies.
Chinatown
Passing under the "Dragon Gates" of Chinatown, traveler's enter a bustling district of commerce bursting with color.
North Beach
Don't blink your eyes, the transition from Chinatown to North Beach is seamless. This quick transition brings us the sights and aromas of San Francisco's "Little Italy".
Fisherman's Wharf
First drop-off location
On the northern waterfront, is the cities most visited and busiest tourist areas. Souvenir shops, stalls selling crab and clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls, appear at every turn.
5 minutesUnion Square
Union Square:
Final drop-off location
5 minutes
Location
Address
2805 Leavenworth St, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA
Experience
Highlights
Inclusions
- Transport by air-conditioned luxury coach
- Bay Cruise if option selected.
- Narrated bus tour of San Francisco + Plenty of photo stops
- Choose from two departure locations in San Francisco: Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square
- 4h Bike Rental (if option selected)
- Aquarium of the Bay Entrance Fee if option selected.
Exclusions
- Food and drinks.
- Gratuities
- Hotel Pick-up & drop-off Not included
Additional Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please contact us 48 hours prior to tour date to confirm your exact departure location (2 options)
- Please bring your paper or electronic voucher with you on the day of your tour to be redeemed upon pickup or check in at one of our tour offices.
- If you choose the option that includes the Aquarium of the Bay Admission, please visit their site for Aquarium of the Bay hours.
- If you choose the option that includes the Bay Cruise Adventure, please visit the Blue & Gold site for the seasonal schedule.
- If you choose the option that includes the 4h Bike Rental: Bike reservation is not mandatory but we always recommend a reservation in order to hold you bikes and streamline the pick up process. Contact for booking confirmation at specific time.
- Stops with Photo opportunities at: Golden Gate Bridge, Palace of Fine Arts, Twin Peaks, Land’s End Ocean Beach (Sutro Baths) & Mission San Francisco de Asis (Mission district)
- Information if you choose tour with 4h Bike rental: For all riders’ safety, Unlimited Biking do not recomend any riders who are 300 pounds and over as this exceeds the weight limit the manufacturer has advised for the bike’s build. We apologize for the inconvenience, but we do prioritize your safety during the ride.
Guide Languages
English
Cancellation Policy
A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.
Traveler Ratings
See how travelers have rated this attraction. Check out the average rating and read what others have shared about their experiences
4.2 / 5
4.2 out of 5 stars
Based on 594 reviews
Review data
5
- 55%
4
- 25%
3
- 10%
2
- 5%
1
- 5%
Traveler Reviews
Discover what other travelers have to say about this attraction. Read their reviews and get insights into their experiences
Traveler Photos
Explore real experiences from other travelers through their photos. See what people have captured during their visit to this attraction
Related Attractions
See what other travelers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings
San Francisco Highlights Small-Group Tour in a Vintage VW Bus
Hop aboard a vintage Volkswagen bus for a San Francisco city tour to remember. Travel down streets a typical tour bus can't access while your guide fills you in on the history of the City by the Bay, from the Gold Rush to Silicon Valley. Get ...
$129
per adult
San Francisco Staircases and Gardens Small-Group Walking Tour
See a side of San Francisco that many visitors overlook—and soak up the city’s local feel—on this small-group walking tour. Pick between morning and afternoon start times, and meet your guide in the Inner Sunset neighborhood. Over the course ...
$35
per adult
San Francisco North Beach Culinary Experience
Join a small group of fellow food enthusiasts in the bustling heart of North Beach for an approximately three-hour exploration of the neighborhood’s vibrant past and culinary highlights. As you stroll along an easy, flat route, listen to your...
$115
per adult
San Francisco and Sausalito Small-Group Driving Tour
See the best of San Francisco (and Sausalito, its neighbor across the Golden Gate Bridge) in one trip—and enjoy an insider’s perspective as you go—on this small-group tour. Following the morning pickup, set off via vehicle to discover highlig...
$125
per adult
San Francisco Highlights Small-Group Tour in a Vintage VW Bus
Hop aboard a vintage Volkswagen bus for a San Francisco city tour to remember. Travel down streets a typical tour bus can't access while your guide fills you in on the history of the City by the Bay, from the Gold Rush to Silicon Valley. Get ...
$129
per adult
San Francisco Staircases and Gardens Small-Group Walking Tour
See a side of San Francisco that many visitors overlook—and soak up the city’s local feel—on this small-group walking tour. Pick between morning and afternoon start times, and meet your guide in the Inner Sunset neighborhood. Over the course ...
$35
per adult
San Francisco North Beach Culinary Experience
Join a small group of fellow food enthusiasts in the bustling heart of North Beach for an approximately three-hour exploration of the neighborhood’s vibrant past and culinary highlights. As you stroll along an easy, flat route, listen to your...
$115
per adult
San Francisco and Sausalito Small-Group Driving Tour
See the best of San Francisco (and Sausalito, its neighbor across the Golden Gate Bridge) in one trip—and enjoy an insider’s perspective as you go—on this small-group tour. Following the morning pickup, set off via vehicle to discover highlig...
$125
per adult
San Francisco Small-Group Storyteller Walking Tour
Skip your usual San Francisco city tour for this walk with a master storyteller, focusing on the folklore and fairytales of the “City by the Bay.” Visit the Mission, the Castro, and the Duboce Triangle neighborhoods with your guide: a publish...
$32
per adult
San Francisco Ghost Hunt Walking Tour
Discover the spooky tales of San Francisco's past and pass by places that are said to be haunted when you embark on this ghost tour in the Pacific Heights district. Walk about one mile at a moderate pace with your guide who shares stories of ...
$30
per adult
San Francisco: Private Open-Top Jeep City Highlights Tour
Enjoy a seamless way to explore San Francisco’s highlights—and unobstructed views of the scenery—on this private open-top Jeep tour. Pick from morning and afternoon start times, meet your guide at Fisherman’s Wharf, and hop aboard. You can lo...
$169
per adult
Emperor Norton's Fantastic San Francisco Time Machine
Meet one of San Francisco’s larger-than-life historical figures, Emperor Norton, for a walking tour that makes the city’s history come alive. Learn about the real Emperor Norton as you take in landmarks such as Union Square, Maiden Lane, Lott...
$30
per adult
San Francisco Bay Adventure Sightseeing Cruise
Head out on a one-and-a-half-hour excursion through the heart of San Francisco Bay aboard a nimble, rigid inflatable boat. Departing from Pier 39, you’ll be outfitted with gear to stay warm and dry. Cruise past city icons such as Alcatraz Isl...
$109
per adult
San Francisco by E-Bike: Golden Gate Bridge, Mission, Castro
Ride a bike across the Golden Gate Bridge on a guided e-bike tour that explores some of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks and neighborhoods. Cycling San Francisco is a great way to experience the city at street level, but steep hills make...
$119
per adult
San Francisco to Muir Woods Shuttle
Location: Our shuttle to Muir Woods departs from Dylan's Tours Shop in 782 Columbus Ave. at 8:00 AM or 2:00 PM
We are the only company in San Francisco offering a round-trip, direct shuttle from San Francisco to Muir Woods! Enjoy stunni...
$89
per adult
The Escape Game San Francisco in Fisherman's Wharf
The Escape Game San Francisco: Fisherman’s Wharf is set right next to delicious dining, endless entertainment, and of course, the beautiful views of the bay! A few of our favorite places to eat include Boudin, Grandeho's Kamekyo, and Pizza Zo...
$45
per adult



San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge Seaplane Tour
$266
per adult



Secret Food Tours San Francisco
$79
per adult



San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge Catamaran Cruise
$58
per adult
Muir Woods, Golden Gate Bridge + Sausalito with Optional Alcatraz
Set off on a small-group journey through San Francisco’s eclectic districts, beginning in Chinatown and North Beach—two neighborhoods bursting with culture, culinary delights, and lively streetscapes. Next, discover the bohemian spirit of the...
$119
per adult



San Francisco's Wild Side, Ecotour With Meteorologist
$31
per adult



San Francisco: Silent Disco Yoga at Baker Beach
$29
per adult
San Francisco: Golden Gate Helicopter Adventure
Lift off the seaside helipad with impressive views from the helicopter’s bubble windows. As you reach cruising altitude, take in the sparkling waters of Sausalito and Tiburon meeting the shores. Take in the sights, island-hopping over histori...
$384
per adult
Yosemite National Park Small-Group Tour From San Francisco
Begin your adventure with a convenient pickup from select San Francisco hotels, then relax aboard a comfortable minibus as you head east. Your first stop is a hike among massive giant sequoias—redwoods so old and large that some trunks measur...
$229
per adult
San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise
Swap the city shoreline for the open water on this sailing excursion around San Francisco Bay. Board the 55- or 65-foot (17- or 20-meter) Adventure Cat catamaran from the Embarcadero and glide away from the waterfront, snappi...
$69
per adult



San Francisco: Golden Gate Helicopter Adventure
$302
per adult



San Francisco: Seaplane Flight with Champagne
$346
per adult
San Francisco Hills and Hidden Gems Urban Jungle Guided Hike
Find your way to the historic Castro Theater in San Francisco's Castro district for your moderate 5-mile (8-km) urban hike. Be sure to wear proper hiking shoes to tackle the city's famous hills and bring some drinking water.
Start with...
$54
per adult
The Walt Disney Family Museum general admission tickets
Take a walk through time and relive childhood memories at the Walt Disney Family Museum. Learn about the magical history, achievements and legacy of Walt Disney through memorabilia dedicated to his life’s work. Located in the heart of The Pre...
$24
per adult
SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium After Dark Thursdays (18+) Admission
San Francisco's Exploratorium is more than just a fun and educational museum during daytime - it's a lot of fun on Thursday nights, too. Step into a world of science, art, and human perception at night with over 650 hands-on exhibits designed...
$23
per adult



SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium After Dark Thursdays (18+) Admission
$23
per adult



California Academy of Sciences: Entry Ticket
$55
per adult
San Francisco Exploratorium General Admission Ticket
Bring the whole family to the Exploratorium, now conveniently located on San Francisco’s vibrant Embarcadero at Pier 15, between Fisherman’s Wharf and the Ferry Building. With a full-day general admission ticket, you’re free to discover this ...
$40
per adult



Legion of Honor: Entry Ticket
$20
per adult
Legion of Honor: Entry Ticket
The Legion of Honor sounds like an assembly of superheroes, but it's not. This museum in San Francisco still packs a punch though. Inside, you'll find an unrivalled collection of art. There's over 124,000 works spanning 4,000 years, from Euro...
$20
per adult
San Francisco Exploratorium: Evening Admission for Happy Hour
On Thursday evenings after the Exploratorium closes, crowds of everyone from computer programmers to fashion designers pour in to nourish their curiosity. It's a weekly gathering of inquisitive minds (ages 18+) amid a festive atmosphere with ...
$23
per adult
Jay Alexander Mind Tricks Live Show Skip-the-Line
With this pre-booked skip-the-line ticket, breeze through potential entrance lines at the Jay Alexander Mind Tricks Live show at the Marrakech Magic Theater. Arrive with your admission ticket ready to explore the theater—a historic speakeasy ...
$55
per adult
"Dear San Francisco" Aerial Extravaganza Pre-Booked Ticket
Break up your sightseeing in San Francisco with a unique night out at the legendary Club Fugaza with this pre-booked ticket to the popular “Dear San Francisco” show. Secure your spot to this spectacular romp through the history of the City by...
$87
per adult



San Francisco: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
$174
per adult



San Francisco: San Francisco Giants Baseball Game Ticket
$17
per adult



San Francisco: San Francisco 49ers Football Game Ticket
$243
per adult



San Francisco: 7D Ride Experience
$12
per adult



San Francisco: "Dear San Francisco" Aerial Show Entry Ticket
$77
per adult
San Francisco Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise
This Father’s Day, create family memories that will be treasured forever with an amazing day on the water! Treat the dad in your life to a special Father's Day Premier Brunch Cruise on the San Francisco Bay. While onboard, your family will en...
$149
per adult